Spectro®

Sensitive Skin:

Let’s get one thing straight: sensitive skin is not a type of skin. SAY WHAT?It’s just your skin reacting to different factors in the world around you.Everyone can (and probably will) experience it at some point.

Your skin is affected by a variety of internal and external factors.Everyone’s exposed to these factors in different amounts.So what are these mysterious factors??

What’s your skin like?

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Blemishes don’t have to ruin your life

No one wants to wake up with a bulging pimple in the middle of their foreheadbut, newsflash: it happens to EVERYONE!So let’s take a look at why it’s happening and how you can deal.

Causes

Pimples form when your pores become clogged. What clogs them? Sebum (an oily substance produced by your skin), dirt, and dead skin cells. Sometimes the bacteria P. Acnes likes to join the party. With it comes redness, swelling, and the ever-dreaded puss. Not fun. Often acne is genetic – if your parents experienced it you’re more likely to get it. Thanks mom and dad!

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How to deal with your indecisive skin

Even if you’re laid back and easygoing, your combination skincan be a little high maintenance;it wants everything, on a silver platter. RIGHT NOW.

WHAT’S THE COMBO

With combo skin you’ll typically feel oily in your T-zone, that being your forehead, nose and chin. Then the rest of your face could be normal to dry. Why? Because one type of skin would just be too darn easy!

But actually, your skin type is determined by how much - or how little - oil your skin produces. Genes, stress level, medication, and even your skin care regimen all determine how much oil your skin produces.

How to deal

The goal with Combination Skin is to remove excess oil from your skin’s oily areas, and keep the normal to dry areas moisturized and hydrated. It’s kinda like paint by numbers, but with cleansers and moisturizers.

Skin as dry as the Sahara?

Dry skin is needy. Like non-stop texting you every day,and whining when you don’t reply needy.

What’s it all worked up about?

Moisture. Your task is to keep your skin clean and hydrated, without causing irritation or over-drying. Some bad news: if you have dry skin, you may have a tendency towards fine wrinkles, flaking, and skin tightness. Good news: it’s not the end of the world.

Eczema, what’s that itch?

Eczema is a skin condition that causes intense dry, red, and itchy skin (BOOOOO).Eczema is referred to as "chronic" because there is no cure and symptoms can reappearor "flare-up" at any time. Okay now that the worst of it’s out of the way,lets talk the what, why and how (to deal)!

The two most common types are Atopic Dermatitis and Contact Dermatitis.Atopic dermatitis are flare-ups that occur because of a family historywith the condition. Yes you can blame your parents (but don’t tell them we told you!)Contact Dermatitis is flare-ups that occur when you comeinto CONTACT (get it??) with allergens or irritants.

Where’s it hang out?

What’s it look like?

Of the three most common symptoms of eczema - red, dry, itchy skin - the primary complaint is itchiness, which often leads to excessive scratching. With eczema, the itchiness regularly causes rashes. Inflamed skin from the rash causes more itchiness, and as the itching persists, the patches often seem to spread and grow larger. Some may even experience a burning sensation at the site as well.

Water

Clobetasone Butyrate 005

Butylene Glycol

(Which is used instead of propylene glycol), an effective softener and moisturizer with added antimicrobial activity that's non-irritating to the skin

Glycerin

Moisturizer that serves to bring natural tissue fluids from deeper skin layers to the top layer of the skin and thereby making it soft and vibrant looking

Hydroproxypropyl Methylcellulose

A thickening agent that produces the smooth quality of Spectro®?

Polysorbate 20

Emulsifier

Cetyl Alcohol

Moisturizer

Hydrated silica

A barrier that forms a protective coating on the skin's surface and works especially well if the cleanser is wiped off rather than washed off

PEG-12 Dimethicone

Which is another form of silicone and serves as a very effective deep pore cleanser; i.e. it penetrates and rinses out the skin pores in order to allow them to "breathe"; it also removes surface oils from the skin and leaves it fresh looking, without drying out the skin, because it preserves the natural oils of the deeper skin layers.

Diazolidinyl Urea

Preservative

Carbomer

A viscosity builder/thickener.

Triethanolamine

Acid neutralizing agent

Sorbitan Oleate

Emulsifier

Parfum

Light fragrance

Dehydroacetic Acid

Preservative

Isopentydiol

Strengthens the softening and moisturizing potential

PEG-60 Almond Glycerides

An especially soothing component that diminishes the irritation often caused by topical medication.

Allantoin

Skin protectant

1,2-hexanediol

Emulsifier

Caprylyl glycol

Emulsifier

Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Oleosomes

Natural Emollient with Occlusive Properties, acts as Emulsion Agent

Polyglycerin-10

Humectant/Moisturizer

Polyacrylamide

Stabilizer (Thickening Agent)

C13-14 Isoparaffin

Stabilizer (Thickening Agent)

Laureth-7

Stabilizer (Thickening Agent)

Benzyl Alcohol

Preservative

Phenoxyethanol

Preservative

Salicylic Acid

Preservative

Benzoic Acid

Preservative

Dehydroacetic Acid

Preservative

Benzethonium Chloride

Preservative

Sodium Hydroxide

pH adjuster

Decaglycerol Decaoleate

Occlusive Agent / Conditioner

L-Carnitine

Reparative/Exfoliant concentrate

Glyceryl stearate

Emulsifying agent

Cetearyl alcohol

Emulsifying agent

Synthetic beeswax

Emulsion stabilizer/stiffening agent

chlorocresol

Preservative

PEG-100 Stearate

Mixed emulsifier

Dimethicone

Emollient

4-Chloro-M-Cresol

Preservative

Citric acid

Buffering agent

Sodium citrate

Buffering agent

arlacel 165

Emulsifier

Beeswax substitute

Emulsion stabilizer/stiffening agent

cetostearyl alcohol

Emulsifying agent

dimentichone 20

glidant

glycerol

Wetting agent/solvent

glyceryl monostearate

Emulsifying agent

purified water

Solvent

Clobetasone butyrate

Medicinal ingredient

Benzoyl Peroxide

Medicinal ingredient

(alpha) cetearyl alcohol

Emulsifier/Emollient

cocamidopropyl betaine

Surfactant

dimethyl isosorbide

Penetration enhancer

hydrogenated castor oil

Emulsifier / stabilizing agent / moisturizer

Lactic acid

pH controller

PEG-14M

Thickening agent

Potassium phosphate

pH buffer

Zea mays (corn) starch

Thickening agent

Glycolic acid

Moisturizer

Imidurea

Preservative

Methylparaben

Preservative

Mineral oil

Moisturizer

Potassium lauryl sulphate

Surfactant

Sodium lauryl sulphate

Surfactant

Sodium PCA

Humectant

Titanium dioxide

Colourant

WANNA BUY IT?

By clicking one of the above links you will leaving the Spectroskincare.com site and moving to an external website independently operated and not managed by GSK. GSK assumes no responsibility for the site.

Spectro® is also available at other Drugstores, Mass merchandisers and grocery stores in Canada

FREQUENTLY ASKED Q's

No it isn't. But even though Spectro® isn't labeled as hypoallergenic, it's non-irritating and gentle enough for sensitive skin. Plus, it's free from potentially irritating ingredients such as fragrance, dyes, sodium lauryl sulphate, parabens and lanolin.

Do your products contain nuts?

While nuts aren't added as an ingredient to Spectro® cleansers, it is manufactured in a facility where other ingredients may have come into contact with nuts.

Moisturizers, both emollients and humectants, help restore water to the skin and help revitalize the damaged skin barrier. Preservatives protect the product against bacterial growth. Binding agents hold the formulation together and are designed to work optimally with the other ingredients. pH Modifiers control the pH of the product.

Are there fragrances / colours added?

There's no colouring added and fragrance is only added to the lightly-scented Spectro® Cleansers.

Is there an expiry date?

Like all cosmetics, Spectro® cleansers don't have an expiry date.

What are the differences between the products?

For oily skin or skin prone to pimples or acne, Spectro® Cleanser for Blemish Prone Skin (Lightly Scented or Fragrance Free) penetrates pores to lift dirt, oil and bacteria that can cause acne.

If you have oily and dry areas on your skin, Spectro® Cleanser for Combination Skin penetrates pores to lift dirt, oil and bacteria while moisturizing dry areas.

When it comes to directly relieving dryness, Spectro® Cleanser for Dry Skin has a non-irritating and gentle formula containing 7 moisturizers to help hydrate skin. The dual action formula contains dimethicone to deep clean pores and a blend of emollients and humectants to protect your skin's natural moisture. And even for the most sensitive skin types, it is gentle enough and free from potentially irritating ingredients such as fragrance, dyes, sodium lauryl sulphate, parabens and lanolin.

Do Spectro® Cleansers contain Sodium Lauryl Sulphate?

Not at all.

What are the preservatives in your products?

The preservative used in Spectro® Cleansers is Diazolidinyl urea.

Have there been clinical studies on Spectro® ?

Not yet.

Do your Spectro® Cleansers contain parabens?

No, they don't.

How do you use the product?

Using Spectro® is easy. Apply it to wet or dry skin and massage for 30 seconds before rinsing or wiping it off. For best results, use Spectro® Cleanser every day, morning and night, and follow with Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizer.

Should I talk to my doctor before using Spectro®?

That depends. If you suffer from a severe skin condition, please consult a physician before use.

Is Spectro® dermatologist recommended?

Spectro® is a dermatologist recommended brand.

Can I use Spectro® if my skin is irritated ( i.e. inflamed )?

Yes, you can. But if you have a severe skin condition, please consult a doctor before use.

Can I use Spectro® on any type of skin?

Sure. However, if you have a severe skin condition, please consult a doctor before use.

When should I stop using Spectro®?

If skin irritations, dryness or a rash develops, discontinue use of the product and consult either your pharmacist or doctor.

Is Spectro® safe for use with children?

From babies with delicate skin to adults, Spectro® Cleansers are ideal for all members of the family.

How old do you have to be to use Spectro®?

There's no minimum age for using Spectro® Cleansers. They're great for all members of the family.

What should I do if I swallow the product?

Discontinue use and seek prompt medical attention from doctor or consult your local poison control centre.

What should I do if I get Spectro® in my eyes?

Spectro® cleansers are non-irritating and very gentle, however, it is best to avoid contact with the eyes.

‘Fragrance Free’ means that there are no additional scents / perfumes added to the product as fragrance can be a potentially irritating ingredient to your skin.

Where is the product available?

Spectro® products can be purchased in all major drugstores as well as in the drugstores of supermarkets and mass-merchandisers like Shoppers Drug Mart, Pharma Plus, Jean Coutu, London Drugs, Sobey's, Loblaws and Wal-Mart etc. If you are unable to locate the product, may we suggest that you ask the pharmacy manager to order the product for you from their regular source of supply.

Why is the product out of stock?

We're sorry that you're having difficulties with finding our products. But don't worry, they are available in most major grocery stores, drug stores and mass merchandise stores across Canada.

When was the product invented?

Spectro® cleansers were developed in Canada in 1982, by a Canadian pharmacist to meet the needs of his customers.

How long has it been on the market?

Spectro® has been available for over 25 years.

What is the difference between Spectro® Jel & Spectro® Derm?

Spectro® Jel is now called Spectro® Cleanser for Blemish-Prone Skin and Combination Skin, and Derm is now Spectro® Cleanser for Dry Skin. Compared to Blemish-Prone Skin Cleanser, Dry Skin Cleanser has 7 additional types of moisturizers.

Why do I get pimples?

Pimples form when your pores become clogged by sebum (an oily substance produced by your skin), dirt and dead skin cells. Sometimes a bacteria (P. Acnes) can also cause redness, swelling and puss with pimples. Acne pimples are most common on the face, however can also occur on the neck, back and arms. Often acne is genetic – if your parents experienced acne you are more likely to get it.

Do you have any make-up recommendations for acne-prone skin?

While we don’t have any specific make-up recommendations, products that are non-comedogenic do not contain ingredients proven to cause pore blockages.

How much does Spectro® cost?

500ml Cleansers: Hi! Thanks for your question! Prices vary between retailers, however the cost per bottle is usually around $12 - $18. Please let us know if you have any other questions!

200ml Cleansers: Hi! Thanks for your question! Prices vary between retailers, however the cost per bottle is usually around $7 - $10. Please let us know if you have any other questions!

Daily Facial Moisturizers: Hi! Thanks for your question! Prices vary between retailers, however the cost per bottle is usually around $12 - $18. Please let us know if you have any other questions!

Intense Rehydration Cream: Hi! Thanks for your question! Prices vary between retailers, however the cost per bottle is usually around $14 - $16. Please let us know if you have any other questions!

Kids Moisturizing Body Wash: Hi! Thanks for your question! Prices vary between retailers, however the cost per bottle is usually around $9 - $12. Please let us know if you have any other questions!

I noticed the Spectro® packaging looks different - is it still the same product?

Spectro® was in need of a new look, but not to worry - it's still the exact same formula on the inside. It just looks more fabulous on the outside!

I have mini pimples on my forehead - what Spectro® product should I use?

If you have blemish prone skin you could try Spectro® cleanser for Blemish-Prone Skin. It deep cleans to remove impurities such as dirt, oil and bacteria while protecting your skin's natural moisture barrier. After cleansing, morning and night, you can follow with Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizer for Blemish Prone Skin. This moisturizer will provide light hydration for your blemish prone skin.

How do Spectro® Cleanser for Blemish Prone skin and Spectro AcneCare® differ?

Spectro® Cleanser for Blemish Prone Skin is a gentle, non-medicinal, non-irritating cleanser specifically formulated for acne-prone or blemish-prone skin. It deep cleans by penetrating pores to lift dirt, oil and bacteria that can cause acne. This cleanser is a good option to use in preparation for using a medicinal spot treatment.

For moderate acne, Spectro AcneCare® Wash for Acne Prone Skin is a medicinal product that contains Benzoyl Peroxide, which penetrates pores to kill p. acnes, a bacteria that can enter your pores and make acne worse. Spectro AcneCare® Wash for Acne Prone Skin helps treat and keep skin clear of new acne pimples.

Wash hands with non-medicated soap that does not contain benzoyl peroxide. Wet affected area (face, neck, chest, back), then apply Spectro AcneCare® Wash for Acne Prone Skin by gently massaging for 1-2 minutes. Rinse off well. Use twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Fair skinned individuals should begin with 1 application. Please note, washing more often than advised will not help your acne clear up more quickly and may cause skin irritation.

What is the active ingredient in the cleansers?

Spectro® cleansers are registered with Health Canada as a cosmetic product and cosmetics do not have an active ingredient.

Are your cleansers non-comedogenic?

Absolutely. Unlike some other cleansers, Spectro® cleansers do not contain mineral oils since these agents can make the product comedogenic.

Does your cleanser contain alcohol?

Spectro® cleansers have cetyl alcohol, a moisturizer that doesn't dry out the skin.

Do your cleansers contain materials derived from animals?

Yes it does. The glycerin used in Spectro® cleansers is animal and vegetable based.

Why doesn't the cleanser lather or foam?

Well, Spectro® cleansers are non-foaming because of their unique formulas. They don't contain Sodium Lauryl Sulphate,
which has foaming properties, and is a potentially irritating ingredient on skin.

Can I use Spectro® as a body wash?

Spectro® cleansers are gentle enough for daily use and can be used on your face, hands, and entire body.

Is Spectro® anti-bacterial?

Spectro® cleansers are anti-bacterial, which makes it great for lifting dirt and preventing acne.

Can I use it as a hand wash?

Spectro® isn't specifically designed to be used as a hand wash, however they are anti-bacterial, which makes them great for lifting dirt.

How long do you feel the effects of the products?

Spectro® cleansers are most effective if you gently rub the gel on your skin for 30 seconds, and then rinse away or wipe with a soft tissue. The cleansing properties cease when the product is rinsed away, however Spectro® cleansers contain moisturizers, which help restore and maintain your skin's moisture barrier throughout the day.

How quickly does the product work?

In some instances, you can feel the difference immediately after using Spectro® However, it is recommended that you continue to use Spectro® cleansers for 2-3 weeks in order to see and feel a difference because they work differently than most cleansers; they gently cleanse your skin without irritation, while their added moisturizers help restore and maintain your skin's moisture barrier, leaving your skin soft and smooth.

Can I use Spectro® as a make-up remover?

Spectro® is excellent at removing dirt, oil and makeup from your skin.

Can I use Spectro® to remove eye make-up?

Yes, it can. Although, it is best to avoid contact with the eyes.

Can I use it in the bath?

Definitely.

What is the pH of Spectro®?

Spectro® is formulated to match the pH of the skin.

How do I use Spectro®?

Good question. Simply apply Spectro® to wet or dry skin and massage for 30 seconds before rinsing or wiping off. For best results, use Spectro® Cleanser every day, morning and night, and follow with Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizer.

How much should I put on my face?

Use enough to cover the face or area of skin you are cleansing.

Are Spectro® Cleansers available outside of Canada?

At this time, Spectro® products are only available in stores in Canada, however there may be online retailers that ship to the US. If you have any other questions, just let us know!

Why does Spectro® smell funny?

Some might say Spectro® smells funny, but since most of our Spectro® cleansers do not include additional fragrances, the natural odours of the ingredients come through. But if you prefer a different smell, blue bottles of Spectro® cleansers come lightly-fragranced.

Spectro® is a transparent, cloudy, non-foaming fluid gel with an elegant, silvery sheen.

Can I use Spectro® with my other face products?

Spectro® Cleanser is a skin cleanser which is applied topically and, although no studies have been performed, it is unlikely that the product would react with anything else.

Can I use Spectro® if I'm pregnant?

As with all products, it is advisable to take extra care when pregnant or lactating. We advise that you consult your physician before use.

Where can I find the Blemish Prone Fragrance Free formula formula?

Our products are available in most major grocery stores, drug stores and mass merchandise stores across Canada.

How do I know if the product has been tampered with?

Spectro® Cleansers are not equipped with tamper evidence features.

Why should I massage the cleanser in for 30 seconds?

Massaging Spectro® cleansers into the skin helps penetrate pores to lift dirt, oil and bacteria that can cause acne.

Can I use Spectro® to care for my recent piercing or tattoo?

Spectro® cleansers are not indicated for piercing or tattoo care (relieving pain or disinfecting).

Is there an oil free cleanser?

For oily skin or skin prone to pimples or acne, Spectro® for Blemish Prone Skin penetrates pores to lift dirt, oil and bacteria that can cause acne and is non-comedogenic (which means it does not contain ingredients proven to cause pore blockages).

Is it Spectro® alone or Spectro® Jel?

It's just Spectro® Cleanser now - Spectro® fans told us they didn't like the word "Jel" and "Derm" so we got rid of them! The different cleansers can be identified by their colours and skin types (Blemish-Prone Skin = purple or blue, Combination Skin = orange, and Dry Skin = green). Let us know if you have any other questions!

Where did Spectro® Derm go? Is it gone?

It's just Spectro® Cleanser now - Spectro® fans told us the didn't like the word "Jel" and "Derm" so we got rid of them! The different cleansers can be identified by their colours and skin types (Blemish-Prone Skin = purple or blue, Combination Skin = orange, and Dry Skin = green). Let us know if you have any other questions!

Can I use Spectro® for my perioral dermatitis?

Spectro® Cleanser is not indicated for the treatment of perioral dermatitis. We recommend you consult a medical professional about an appropriate treatment for your condition.

Other products give me breakouts and dry patches. What Spectro® product should I use?

Spectro® has a cleanser for Combination Skin. Spectro® Combination Skin cleanser is a gentle, non-irritating cleanser specially formulated for skin that has both oily and dry areas - it removes oil from your skin’s oily areas and moisturizes dry spots in need of hydration. If you have any other questions please don't hesitate to ask!

My skin isn't very sensitive - can I still use Spectro®?

Yes!! While Spectro® cleansers are gentle and non-irritating, they deep clean to remove impurities such as dirt, oil and bacteria while protecting your skin's natural moisture barrier.

Does Spectro® make a scrub?

Using harsh or scrubbing products (like facial scrubs, exfoliators, masks, etc) can strip your skin and make acne worse. While it's important to remove excess oil, dirt and bacteria, it is very important to use a gentle cleanser (like Spectro® cleansers!) to do so. Let us know if you have any other questions!

I get dry skin after using spot treatments - what can I use?

Before using a treatment you could cleanse with a gentle cleanser that contains added moisturizers, like Spectro® Dry Skin Cleanser - it still deep cleans to remove impurities such as dirt, oil and bacteria while protecting your skin’s natural moisture barrier but it also contains 7 moisturizers to help hydrate and restore dry skin. After cleansing you can apply Spectro® Dry Skin Daily Facial Moisturizer which is a daily facial moisturizer that provides enhanced hydration specifically designed for your dry skin.

How do you use Spectro EczemaCare® Medicated Cream?

When an eczema flare up occurs, individuals 12 years of age and older can use Spectro EczemaCare® Medicated Cream to clear the flare-up and break the itch-scratch cycle. Apply the medicated cream to the affected areas as indicated on the product packaging to a maximum of twice per day. If the flare up does not clear, consult a doctor. Prior to applying any cream, make sure to clean the affected skin with a mild cleanser such as Spectro® Cleanser for Dry Skin.

How does Spectro EczemaCare® Medicated Cream work?

Spectro EczemaCare® Medicated Cream helps stop the itching and redness associated with eczema. The cream base has moisturizing properties that help with healing. Spectro EczemaCare® Medicated Cream contains a medicinal ingredient called Clobetasone Butyrate (CB). CB is a moderately potent corticosteroid which can be used topically as an effective and safe method for controlling the symptoms of eczema.

How do I use Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizers?

Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizers should be smoothed over your face and neck after cleansing. You can apply the moisturizer at both morning and night. A little goes a long way, so test how well your skin absorbs the formula to know how much is ideal for your skin.

What are Safflower Oleosomes?

Safflower Oleosomes are the main moisturizing ingredient in Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizers

What’s not in your moisturizer is just as important as what is. Fragrance is commonly added to facial moisturizers to provide a pleasant scent. However, fragrance can be irritating to your skin, making everyday skin problems worse, and is the most frequent cause of allergic reactions to cosmetic products*. Fragrance Free doesn’t mean that your product won’t have any smell, it just means that fragrance hasn’t been added to the formula. All 3 Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizers are Fragrance Free.

Why is it important your moisturizers are hypoallergenic?

Hypoallergenic means containing relatively few or no potentially irritating substances. Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizers are hypoallergenic and will not irritate any existing allergies you may have.

How do I know which Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizer to pick?

Spectro® Daily Facial Moisturizers come in 3 formulas for 3 different skin types: People with normal to combination skin may experience oily areas on their forehead and nose, and dryer skin on their cheeks. These people need to select a product that is non-comedogenic and can use Spectro® Daily for Normal to Combination Skin.

People with blemish-prone skin typically experience skin problems on a frequent basis. These people need to select a product that is non-comedogenic to prevent trapping dirt, and one that will promote exfoliation to remove any dead skin cells that may be trapping blemish promoting bacteria. Spectro® Daily for Blemish-Prone Skin is suggested.

People with Dry Skin usually have dry skin on all areas of the face, most notably along the jaw line and cheeks. These people need to select a facial moisturizer that is heavier and able to deliver moisture throughout the day. It is important to apply a facial moisturizer like Spectro® Daily for Dry Skin both in the morning and before bed.

How does Spectro® Dry Skin Therapy Intense Rehydration Cream work?

Spectro® Dry Skin Therapy Intense Rehydration Cream is a rich moisturizing cream that relieves itching and reduces redness due to dry skin. Smooth a generous amount over skin morning, night and after cleansing. Most effective when applied on damp skin after cleansing with a gentle cleanser, such as Spectro® Cleanser for Dry Skin. The skin has a natural moisture barrier and it plays an important role in maintaining smooth, healthy-looking skin. Spectro® Dry Skin Therapy Intense Rehydration Cream is specially formulated to replenish the skin's natural moisture barrier, and protect from environmental stressors that cause dry skin. It is clinically proven to moisturize and help protect very dry, and sensitive skin. This product replenishes water that has been lost and retains moisture deep within the skin, allowing the skin time to repair itself. It is non-irritating, non greasy and steroid free.